Fish farmer
Fish farmers breed and raise fish and shellfish stock in freshwater tanks and offshore coastal pens.
Also known as: Aquaculturist, hatchery technician
- Starter salary£23,000 a year
- Experienced£35,000 a year
- Typical hours40 to 48 a week
What you'll do
As a fish farmer, you could:
- breed fish from eggs or buy in young fish to raise
- feed fish and monitor their growth and health
- check water quality samples at regular intervals
- grade and move fish to different tanks as they grow
- maintain buildings, equipment and habitats
- make sure environmental standards are met
- harvest stock
- operate small boats to get to and from inland and coastal farms
- collect feed and equipment, and make deliveries to local buyers
Working environment
You could work on a farm or at sea.
Your working environment may be physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of biology
- the ability to work well with others
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- the ability to work well with your hands
- business management skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to become a fish farmer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- applying directly
- training with an industry professional body
University
You could do a foundation degree or degree in a subject related to fish farming, for example:
- aquaculture and fisheries management
- marine biology
- environmental science
- sports fisheries and aquaculture
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
College
You could take a college course to learn some of the skills and knowledge needed to get a job as a farm operative or assistant hatchery technician.
Courses are usually offered by agricultural colleges and include:
- fisheries management
- land and wildlife management (fish)
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
Volunteering
Voluntary work in related areas can be a useful way to learn skills and make contacts in the industry. This can be helpful when looking for jobs.
Examples include:
- taking part in water monitoring schemes with river trusts
- ecological and fish surveys on waterways and lakes
- getting involved with angling club work
- temporary work with the Environment Agency
Direct application
You could apply directly to fish farms for permanent or seasonal work. There are no set qualifications required but some paid or voluntary experience is helpful. A background in the sea fishing industry might also be useful.
Employers will also look for good practical and time management skills, and the ability to turn your hand to different tasks.
Other routes
You may be able to take a course like the Certificate in Fisheries Management offered by the Institute of Fisheries Management (IFM). This would give you an introduction to the industry and can lead on to further training, or help in job interviews.
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- have a full driving licence
Career path and progression
With experience and further training, you could move into hatchery and fisheries management, biological science, or environmental inspection and research.
You could also set up and operate your own fish farm.
Career tips
Fish and shellfish farms are normally located in the countryside and on the coast, sometimes in remote areas. You'll need access to a vehicle to get to work.
Guides for this industry
Related roles
- Job roleFishing boat deckhand
- Job roleGamekeeper
- Job roleFarmer
- Job roleCountryside ranger
- Job roleEnvironmental consultant
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